ART CRIME INJUSTICE

Art is a place where humans are free to consider the real world in ways that objective world views can’t always do — from the inside. We cannot “other” people or events if we are given a window to see the world from other people’s experiences, which can teach u a lot about the roots of violence and the trappings of the criminal justice system.

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Hello Couch. Your blogs are thought provoking and your ethos is interesting. I am particularly interested in your view on art and the effect / aesthetic transference on the viewer, as well as the concept of art as sublimation… I would like to quote you if I may (for my thesis), I would appreciate knowing what references you draw from for your articles; especially the Gacy work. I am a clinical Art Psychotherapist trainee working in a forensic setting. Many thanks, Eden

You are free to quote me, but I am not an expert in this area in any way, shape or form. My analysis of Gacy’s artwork is strictly a personal one. I interpreted his artwork based on my own experience and education as an artist (BFA and MFA) combined with my interest in psychology and crime. And of course, the general research I have done on his crimes and art work.

Your area of study sounds very interesting and I would like to learn more about your thesis.

To be honest, I hadn’t given deep thought to the idea of transference on the viewer, although that is what I was clearly exploring with my analysis.On a personal level, I do believe that art can provide a window into the unconscious/subconscious. I am convinced, based on my own aesthetic interpretation, that Gacy’s work reveals much about his psyche. However, such an idea is only guess work on my part. If he was not a serial killer, I am not sure I would have examined or interpreted his art work in the way that I have because context is everything.

As an addition to my previous comment, Gacy’s work is not remarkable in any way from an artistic/aesthetic point of view. If he wasn’t a serial killer, I would not have pondered or given his art much consideration (aesthetically and definitely not art historically). The intent of the article was to consider his art work (aesthetic, content, etc.) within the context of knowing that he was a serial a killer. Hindsight is everything, right?